The Funky Deli

The Funky Deli | Aaron-Spencer C: J Medeiros is a Hip Hop prophet of consciousness. Since coming across his natural ability to read between the lines of our society, on his 2007 debut LP Of Gods and Girls, it has become clear that the Coloradan/Californian emcee is serious about spreading awareness of our everyday struggles, which we often sweep out of sight.

Mr. Medeiros’ latest creation comes in the form of the music video “Pale Blue Dot”, from the 200 limited edition 7” vinyls released by The Find Magazine. The setting sees the former member of The Procussions flowing about political violence and those choosing greed over originality. Toy soldiers scattered across the desert sand, along with flashcards of emotive words, emphasise Medeiros anti-war beliefs and desire to open viewers’ minds.

The Chorus has a soothing but thought-provoking tone as the voice of Giannina Ashe tells us how the world appears in this modern age (“…Just a sailing rock/ Yeah a pale blue dot/ Where they say we ain’t changed a lot, since out days in Rome.”)

Just like a teacher who aspires for his students to succeed and learn from life’s lessons, J Medeiros wants you to take a look inside yourself and find where you fit in, in this shaky world of ours.

To get a hold of the “Pale Blue Dot” EP visit thefindmag.bandcamp.com/album/pale-blue-dot-ltd-blue-vinyl

Keep up with J Medeiros music @ www.mrjmedeiros.com

**Recommended Listen - J Medeiros: “Neon Signs” ft Stro

thefunkydeli: The first time I knew of J-Boogie’s Dubtronic Science was back in 2007, when this journalism gig would get me free CDs. The oh-so-Cali-sounding Hip Hop album that is OM Hip Hop Volume 1 put me on the amazing ear for music J-Boogie had, as he compiled some of the dopest emcees and producers on to the CD, which features this great song.

Now with a brand new project spinning, J-Boogie’s Dubtronic Science has given fans, and newcomers, a treat with the release of his video “Undercover”, from his album of the same name, dropping on October 4. This 80’s-vintage styled Bollywood video, takes you into a really cool place, where dancing is a must.

To get familiar with the genius that is J-Boogie, head to: www.jboogie.com

thefunkydeli: Hopie Spitshard has been one of my favourite [female] MCs since I first heard her music, last year. Her understanding of Hip-Hop music and its ability to grow are qualities that make her a refreshing lyricist to listen to.

In this video by Curators of Hip Hop, Hopie talks about the aura of female MCs in the genre, and how she feels about her musical message.

The San Francisco native released her much-talked-about E.P., “Dulce Vita”, a few months ago, with positive reviews, and rightfully so — the E.P. heightens her lyrical ability…more Hip Hop fans need to take note of this woman.

For more about Hopie, check out: www.hopiespitshard.com // Recommended Listen: “Higher, Higher” / “Lonely Without The World”

thefunkydeli: This gem of a video is the latest piece of musical/visual dope, from westcoast rappers, Pac Div.

Shot at 3LittleDigs in Atlanta, Georgia, Like, Mibbs and BeYoung give you, “Rollin’” [my personal favourite] off the “Dont Mention It” mixtape.

Expect Pac Div’s highly anticipated album to be released this summer.

Follow Pac Div @ itspacdiv

thefunkydeli: It amazes me as to how Melanie Fiona doesn’t appear on the musical radar of some who call themselves radio DJs, and claim to support outstanding R&B talent.

Exceptional vocal abilities, great songwriting and a genuine interest in becoming a world reknowned artist, is what makes Melanie Fiona an amazing singer, full-stop.

The Canadian’s debut album, “The Bridge”, caught the attention of real R&B-Soul fans across the borders, now, Miss. Fiona is gearing up to release her forthcoming album, “The MF Life”, with this recent video for the LP’s lead single, “Gone and Never Coming Back”.

Melanie Fiona sings and performs with a passion reminiscent of many vocalists of the ’90s (think Tamia), so there is no reason to miss her live performance at The El Rey Theatre in Los Angeles, California, on Saturday 26 March — U.S. followers can get tickets here.

thefunkydeli: Females with confidence stand out by a mile. When those same young women bring that confidence to their music…well, a spark is made, and that’s what Marz Lovejoy does.

The 19-year-old Minnesota-born, California-raised poet brings her life experiences as a rebellious teenager to the mic, using Hip Hop as a form of self expression. Lovejoy dedicates her time putting pen-to-paper, writing about love, pain and growth with no hesitation.

Last year she was an opening act for fellow Cali MCs, Pac Div (whom she is often affiliated with) on their US Tour, and dropped the EP “This Little Light of Mine”, later that year.

This video is Marz Lovejoy’s debut, “Love Bullet Gun”, which is cool, calm and collected *The rap slightly reminds me of Left-Eye Lopez*.

Check out the behind the scenes video and hit www.marzlovejoy.com for show dates and more. | Recommended listen: “Sticky” / “The Heaviest”

thefunkydeli: SXSW | My Ones To Watch (part 4) |

Californian rock bands are always of a high calibre and are very good at producing consistent LPs, but the pressure for west coast band, Evaline, to uphold the team, is nothing for them to worry about.

Hailing from Turlock, California, Evaline have been evolving since the release of their EP “Postpartum Modesty: A Portrait of Skin” in 2006. Their refreshing song structures and unique stage presence, brought a refreshing appeal to the genre, allowing them to successfully tour across the United States.

Now, Evaline’s debut album, “Woven Material” (which was recorded in the UK) is set for a June release this summer, aiming to bring even more attention to the group’s musical talent.

SXSW will be given melodies and powerful guitar riffs from the band’s highly-acclaimed catalogue of tracks.

More about Evaline can be found at www.evaline.tumblr.com | Recommended listen: “La De Da” / “Postpartum Modesty”

thefunkydeli: |SXSW > My Ones To Watch (part 1)|

The infamous music festival and film/media conference, SXSW (South By Southwest) is set to bring Austin, Texas alive this March, and there are surely going to be a number of artists who will gain new fans and capture the attention of label big-wigs.

The next few short posts are just some of the artists that caught my eardrums. ————

Los Rakas are two Panamanian cousins (DunDun and Rico aka “Filthy Rich”) making it happen, straight out of the heart of Oakland, California. It usually isn’t common for artists who make tracks in their native tongue, to have an all-round appeal with everybody, but Los Rakas bring a different style, fixing that problem.

When hearing their music, you will experience dancehall-inspired flavours, reggae and that distinctive west coast youthfulness.

Their set at SXSW will bring a refreshing aspect of spanish-speaking music.

Hit www.losrakas.com for more about the group | Recommeded listen: “Abrazame” / “Mi Barrio”